Fertiliser mine posts record-breaking figures for November

The company which runs a fertiliser mine said its operation successfully hoisted and processed more than 75,000 tonnes of material last month.

ICL Boulby is approaching the end of its first full year since becoming the world’s first and only producer of the mineral polyhalite – marketed as Polysulphate.

The East Cleveland mine’s general manager and vice president, Andrew Fulton, paid tribute to the efforts of all staff, saying the mine was well on track towards its target of hitting a million tonnes next year and up to three millions tonnes by 2030.

The company’s decision to make the transition to polyhalite – which contains four nutrients vital to plant growth – was made because economically viable reserves of potash, which had been mined for over 40 years, were nearing exhaustion.

Boulby’s products are now being used by farmers and growers across five continents.

Fulton said: “This has been a vital year for everyone involved with Boulby—the workforce at the mine, our distribution and processing terminal at Teesport and all those involved in marketing and developing a growing range of polyhalite-based products.

“It is their united effort which enabled us to reach our November hoist target of 75,000 tonnes with 30 hours to spare.

“Achieving the rapid progress we have made throughout the year has involved everyone being prepared to meet the challenges of accepting new operating techniques and processes, coupled with strong support and investment from our parent company.

“We have learned many lessons  in developing the potential of this revolutionary mineral which means we are in a strong position to move forward in securing the future of our business, providing valuable jobs and continuing to make a major contribution to the East Cleveland area and the wider Tees Valley.”